Government Bodies Research Articles

AN EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PROVISION OF LAND USE POLICY FOR BUILDING HOUSES IN RURAL BANGLADESH

The paper provides a comprehensive evaluation of the national land use policy in Bangladesh, highlighting the gaps in implementation and the need for strategic improvements for building houses using minimum agricultural land in rural areas of Bangladesh. The main objectives of the policy evaluation research are to explore the extent of the intervention of the National Land Use Policy 2001 that has achieved the objective of minimum use of agricultural land, to determine whether the authority has made the rural people aware of building model houses, multistorey buildings, and planned residential areas in the village and finally to find out the critical factors for effective implementation of national land use policy. It has been used as a mixed evaluation research method with both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data were collected online using a semistructured questionnaire and checklist for respondent interviews. The main results of the policy evaluation revealed that the objectives of the policy are not achieved and effectively implemented for numerous reasons as such, the implementers are reluctant to implement and make aware the villagers, responsible implementing agencies are not fully well-defined, people are unaware and do not know about the policy, lack of village development planning and design, overpopulation and segregation of families, poverty, lack of monitoring by the ministry, unorganized urbanization and industrialization, local political influence, absence of land zoning and union parishad are unwilling to enforce their laws, etc. To implement the policy effectively, a joint effort of the local government bodies, local communities, and all local administration departments would be required, and each organization’s role would be well classified, and payment or loan support would be transferred to the rural people of Bangladesh.

Empowerment and Sustainability: Investigating Barriers to Women’s Transition from Higher Education to Empowerment in Brazil

Gender equality continues to be a global issue, with significant disparities in attention and action between developed and developing nations. Women, in particular, face unique challenges when transitioning from higher education (HE) to empowerment compared to their male counterparts. In many developing countries, barriers to accessing formal education are prevalent, while, in others, despite access to education, women struggle to leverage their learning for societal advancement. This paper adopts the development theory approach by exploring the role of gender equality in fostering sustainable development, emphasizing how women’s empowerment is integral to overall societal progress. This study focuses on Brazil, where, despite high levels of female educational attainment, women still encounter substantial obstacles in transforming their education into meaningful societal empowerment. These challenges include restricted freedom and mobility, deeply ingrained gender norms, violence and harassment, cultural and societal expectations, economic limitations, and family obligations. Survey data were collated from 192 students, alumni, and staff at three academic higher education (HE) institutions in Brazil, utilizing a range of descriptive and inferential statistical analyses to uncover the most significant barriers. This study concludes with policy recommendations aimed at various stakeholders, including government bodies, employers, and other organizations, to support a smoother transition for women from higher education to empowerment. These recommendations include improving workplace policies, enhancing legal protections, and promoting gender equality in leadership roles, all of which are essential to narrowing the gender gap in Brazil.

Synthesis of a hydrological, water chemistry, and contaminants research program in the Peace-Athabasca Delta (Canada) to inform long-term monitoring of shallow lakes

In a multistressor world, evidence-based stewardship of aquatic ecosystems requires long-term monitoring data to understand the timing and magnitude of environmental change and potential causes. At the Peace-Athabasca Delta (PAD; northeastern Alberta, Canada), concern for aquatic ecosystem degradation has triggered renewed and urgent calls by Indigenous, national, and international governance bodies for implementation of a long-term lake monitoring program capable of tracking changes in hydrological conditions and contaminant deposition attributable to major energy projects located upstream, climate change, and other unnatural and natural processes. Challenges imposed by the delta's size, hydrological complexity, inaccessibility of lakes, and other factors, however, have long impeded implementation of a delta-wide lake monitoring program. To address this pressing need, here we review and synthesize results obtained during 7 years (2015–2021) of intensive, multifaceted research at 60 shallow lakes spanning the delta's broad hydroecological gradients to inform an integrated hydrology, water chemistry, and contaminants monitoring program. The research involved systematic, repeated measurements of water isotope composition, water depth variation, water chemistry and turbidity, and metal(loid) concentrations in lake surface sediment and periphytic biofilm. Results reveal marked spatial and temporal variation of hydrological processes and their affects on lake water balance and depth, strong association between hydrological processes and lake water chemistry, and that concentrations of nickel and vanadium (key oil sands indicators) remain within the range of natural variation. Correspondence of generalized additive model trendlines for isotope-derived lake evaporation-to-inflow ratios and water chemistry with climate indices (Pacific Decadal Oscillation, Oceanic Niño Index) demonstrates the sensitivity, and predictability, of lake ecosystem processes in the delta to large-scale climatic patterns. We provide recommendations for field sampling, sample analysis, data display, and integration of information for ongoing monitoring at the PAD. These approaches are readily transferable to other complex landscapes with abundant shallow waterbodies threatened by multiple stressors that may alter hydrological regimes and contaminant delivery.

THE KEY DIRECTIONS FOR IMPROVING THE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT OF THE TAX SYSTEM IN THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA

The transition to market relations involves addressing numerous challenges, and resolving these challenges is essential for creating the necessary preconditions for the further development of the market economy in the Republic of Armenia (RA). This includes the implementation of radical transformations in the country's financial, monetary, banking, fiscal, social, structural, and other systems. During the reforms of the financial system in the Republic of Armenia, special attention has been given to the creation and ongoing improvement of an effective tax system. In this regard, the RA State Revenue Committee, as the tax authority, has served as a state government body responsible for tax administration for more than 30 years. Over this period, it has accumulated significant experience and, in line with contemporary developments, has implemented various infrastructures and information systems. According to the author, the financial management of the RA tax system falls within the general theory of management, and the functions of financial management, such as financial planning, analysis, forecasting, and control, are adequately reflected in this context. The article emphasizes the conceptual foundations of program budgeting and accounting, which ensure a practical, close connection between the financial management of the RA tax system and accounting, budgeting, and the financial flows of the tax system and their related transactions. This connection leads to the effective management of the assets and liabilities of the RA tax system.

The management methods in the sphere of state security in conditions of social transformation

The article is dedicated to the investigation of management methods in the field of state security during periods of social transformation. It addresses the importance of adapting governance strategies to contemporary challenges, especially in the context of Ukraine’s ongoing crisis and global instability. Emphasis is placed on the development of comprehensive management approaches that not only react to current threats but also anticipate future challenges. The relevance of the study is underlined by the need for strategic planning and proactive implementation of policies to safeguard national interests and ensure long-term stability. The article emphasizes the necessity of effective cooperation between public administration entities to guarantee the resilience of the national security system. The author notes that the success of state security management heavily depends on the integration of political, legal, and organizational mechanisms. The focus is on how these mechanisms contribute to the implementation of Ukraine’s National Security Strategy, aiming to protect the country’s territorial integrity and facilitate its European integration efforts. Special attention is given to the reform of public administration, stressing the importance of transparency and professionalism in law enforcement and strategic management. The author indicates that effective governance in the security sector requires enhanced coordination among various governmental bodies. The importance of information exchange, joint training, and the development of new technological solutions is highlighted as key methods for addressing modern security threats such as terrorism, cyberattacks, and organized crime. The study also points out the need for continuous professional development and reform in public administration to ensure that national security objectives are met in a timely and effective manner. Particular attention is paid to the interaction between different state institutions and the importance of coordinated efforts to respond to security threats. The article underscores the need for a dynamic and adaptable governance system, one that can respond swiftly to both domestic and international challenges. This includes the development of innovative approaches to governance, strategic planning, and the use of cutting-edge technologies. Ultimately, the study calls for the continuous improvement of public administration in the security sector, to build a sustainable and secure future for Ukraine.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of the healthcare staff and students about disposal of unwanted medications: a systematic review

Abstract Introduction Improper disposal of medications poses a significant environmental risk on the ecosystems and human beings1. When medicines are discarded by flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the household trash, their active components may leak into the water supply2. Aim This systematic review seeks to compile studies that examine healthcare professionals' and students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding medication disposal. It also aims to explore recommendations and barriers related to appropriate medication disposal. Methods A systematic review was conducted by adhering to guidelines outlined in Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 and the Joanna Briggs Institute. The primary outcome is to measure the levels of the healthcare staff and students' knowledge, as well as their attitudes, and practices about disposal of unwanted medications. Authors included qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method primary research studies. Participants included pharmacists, doctors, nurses, and both undergraduate and postgraduate medical, pharmacy, and nursing students due to their significant involvement with medication and its disposal in healthcare settings. Data extraction was conducted by four of the researchers independently. The study details were categorised into three main domains i.e., knowledge, attitude, and practice using the KAP model. Other relevant information was also extracted, thematically, such as challenges and recommendations. Ethical approval was not required as this systematic review used previously published data. Results 37 studies from 18 countries (21 from Asia, 7 from the US, 5 from Africa, and 2 each from the EU and South America) met the inclusion criteria. 86.5% (n=32) investigated participants' knowledge of medication disposal. Although there is a good level of awareness about the environmental impacts, there are significant gaps in knowledge regarding correct disposal methods, available services, guidelines, and training. 30 studies explored participants' attitudes toward medication disposal. The results indicate a generally positive attitude towards the need for environmentally safe disposal practices. 35 studies evaluated participants' practices in relation to medication disposal. Although there was generally a positive attitude and some understanding of appropriate disposal methods, majority of the participants do not follow the practice guidelines, especially outside healthcare settings. This inconsistency may be due to numerous factors such as inadequate practical training, limited resources, or unclear guidelines. Discussion/ Conclusion Overall, it was found that while healthcare staff and students have fair knowledge and positive attitudes toward medicine disposal, their actual practices are lacking. One significant challenge identified is the limited awareness about proper disposal methods coupled with a lack of established services or guidelines in many regions. Even in cases where take-back programs are available, they often face issues with accessibility. To tackle these challenges, it is suggested by the studies that governmental bodies should establish and enforce clear policies on medication disposal while also expanding educational initiatives to increase understanding among healthcare professionals and students about appropriate disposal methods. Furthermore, improving access to take-back programs is crucial for ensuring safe medication disposal and minimising potential environmental and health hazards.

The permanent adjustment process: A theoretical approach to structural change in commercial ports from the nineteenth century onwards

This article proposes a theoretical approach to the development of Western commercial ports from the Industrial Revolution onwards. It is based both on a bibliographical corpus devoted to port history and on personal research into the main French ports of the nineteenth century. This work was based on two main sources: firstly, the Annales des Ponts et Chaussées, which recorded the experiments and theoretical work carried out by the engineers of this government body; and secondly, the Actes législatifs et Dépenses concernant les Travaux de Navigation Intérieure et Maritime de 1814 à 1900, a document published by the Ministry of Public Works which provides information on the budgets allocated to the main French ports. This reflection shows that since the nineteenth century the development of ports has been subject to a permanent adjustment process, with four main characteristics: disruptive innovation, spatial adaptation, selective adaptation and one-way adaptation.

The reaction of the social security systems of the European Union and the united states of America to financial crises: proposals for using the experience in Russia

In the context of accelerated transformation of the domestic economy, attempts at economic and socio-political isolation of the Russian Federation (hereinafter referred to as RF, Russia), the question of rethinking the role of social protection in the development of the RF arises. The purpose of the work is to develop recommendations for increasing the adaptability of the domestic social protection system to future possible shocks, with consideration to modern practices used in developed economies. The object of the study is social protection systems. The subject is measures of adaption of these systems to consequences of financial crises. When conducting the study, the following methods have been used: analysis, induction, measurement, comparison, computational and constructive, statistical and economic. The main results of the study include identification of the basic channels for the transition of a financial crisis into a social one, and assessment of the fiscal impulses of the European Union countries, United States of America, and Russia in order to mitigate the negative shocks of financial crises. The practical significance of the work is due to the possibility of using the results in the activities of government bodies as part of improving the domestic social protection system. The similar nature of consequences of global financial crises has allowed us to draw a number of conclusions. Firstly, job retention schemes and social support measures for the unemployed population make it possible to create an effective system of income support for workers, especially for vulnerable groups. Secondly, increasing the targeting of social support measures will lead to the performance growth of social protection system, allowing for a more rational distribution of limited budget resources. Finally, this social system can effectively reach the target segment of beneficiaries only if means-testing information systems are of high quality.

Postoperative pain management practice and associated factors among nurses working at public hospitals, in Oromia region, Ethiopia, 2021: an institution-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundManagement of postoperative pain leads to positive patient progress and shortens the duration of hospital stay. There is a lack of information on nurse’s postoperative pain management practice and its...

The influence of international financial reporting standards on the development of national accounting and reporting systems of Ukraine

In the context of globalization and increasing integration of national economies into global markets, the issue of harmonization of accounting standards is becoming particularly relevant.The implementation of IFRS not only improves the quality of financial reporting and transparency of information for international investors, but also contributes to the development of the national business environment and enhances confidence in Ukrainian companies on the global stage. The purpose of the study is to comprehensively analyze the impact of IFRS on national accounting and reporting systems in Ukraine.In particular, the study covers the historical context of the development of accounting systems in Ukraine before the introduction of international standards, analysis of the legislative and regulatory framework governing the application of IFRS, as well as identification of the main advantages, challenges and problems faced by Ukrainian companies in adapting IFRS. The research methods include analysis of historical sources, legislative and regulatory acts governing the implementation of IFRS in Ukraine, as well as study of scientific papers and literature on this topic. The result of the study is a set of recommendations for improving the adaptation of IFRS, which include the development of comprehensive training programs for enterprises, the creation of an information platform to support the implementation of standards, as well as enhancing cooperation between government bodies and businesses to monitor the effectiveness of the implementation. The practical significance of the study lies in the development of proposals for improving the process of implementing international standards, which will increase the level of transparency and trust in Ukrainian companies from international investors and contribute to the improvement of the investment climate in the country. Prospects for further research are to identify ways to improve the process of implementing IFRS in Ukraine, mainly for small and medium-sized enterprises. It is also necessary to develop government support strategies to simplify this process and increase the effectiveness of the application of international standards in national accounting and reporting systems. Furthermore, further research could be linked to an analysis of the impact of IFRS on other aspects of financial regulation in Ukraine and the prospects for their integration with European standards.

Evaluation of Antifungal Activity of Somaraji Taila Extract & Taila in Dadru Kushta (Tinea Infections) - An Experimental Study

Dermatophytosis has become a significant health problem affecting children, adolescents, and adults worldwide. In India 5 out of 1000 people suffer from Tinea infections. The present study evaluated the antifungal activity of Somaraji Taila in Tinea (Dermatophytosis) in Invitro & Invivo model. Cultures were brought from MTCC a government body and inoculated in SDA media under aseptic condition. Later it was subjected to microscopic and macroscopic examination to identify the organism. A sensitivity test was done using SDA media by well diffusion method, with 4 different concentrations of Hydro-Methanolic extraction of Somaraji Taila ingredients. After the incubation period, the zone of inhibition was checked and was measured in mm. As the next phase of the study, animal study was also conducted to check antifungal properties & anti dermal toxicity on albino rat skin.

Evolving national guidelines for the treatment of children and adolescents with gender dysphoria: International perspectives

From the early years of this century, many Western countries adopted the “Dutch Protocol” as a new medical pathway for treating children and adolescents with childhood-onset gender dysphoria. On this approach, gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) were used to suppress puberty, followed by cross-sex hormones (testosterone or oestrogen). This perspective article traces—in each of the countries where we, the authors, live and work—how the Dutch Protocol came to be incorporated into clinical practice or formally adopted into national guidelines. Over time, guidelines across different countries were progressively shaped by a rights-based approach that removed previous safeguards and increased availability of gender-reassignment medical interventions for children and adolescents. From 2010 onward, two developments raised new concerns, generating alternate perspectives and wide-ranging differences in clinical approach. Numerous countries reported an unexpected increase in adolescent-onset presentations, especially among girls. During the same period, an increasing number of individuals who had undergone gender-reassignment medical interventions as minors reported harm and regret. Worldwide, questions were raised about the safety of clinical guidelines for children and adolescents presenting with gender dysphoria. Government bodies in Finland, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the U.S. state of Florida commissioned systematic reviews pertaining to hormone treatments and issued formal reports. In a parallel process, “conversion therapy” laws, passed in many countries, closed access to exploratory psychotherapy that enables exploration of gender-identity issues from a neutral therapeutic stance. Taken together, these three developments introduced evidence-based and legal considerations into the debate, resulting in tensions that remain unresolved.

Fostering Sustainable Female Participation in STEM Through Ecological Systems Theory: A Comparative Study in Three African Countries

This study explores factors influencing female engagement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields in Mozambique, Nigeria, and Uganda through Urie Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory. The research collected qualitative data from 81 women across these countries through open-ended surveys. Using content analysis, the results demonstrate the critical role of personal interests nurtured by family, showing how direct interactions with family influence STEM engagement at a microsystem level. The mesosystem level reveals the supportive influence of community and school interactions, emphasizing the importance of relationships between different microsystems, such as family–school collaborations, in fostering female participation in STEM. The exosystem level identifies the impact of positive media portrayals and role models, illustrating how external environments indirectly affect perceptions and aspirations in STEM through media and societal influences. The macrosystem level underscores the persistent cultural norms shaping gender roles, reflecting broader societal and cultural values that influence gender diversity in STEM fields, with 63% of respondents in Mozambique, 57% in Nigeria, and 67% in Uganda indicating that societal views on gender roles discouraged participation. Lastly, the chronosystem level captures the temporal changes and progress in gender diversity in STEM, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and policy reforms to address longstanding gender imbalances. Despite progress, significant gender imbalances remain, necessitating targeted interventions and policy reforms. The study proposes a sustainable, collaborative model to foster early interest and sustained participation of females in STEM, emphasizing the importance of seamless cooperation among families, educational institutions, communities, and government bodies. The findings aid in creating supportive environments for sustaining female STEM participation, promoting economic and social development in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The Role of Qawā’id Fiqhiyyah in Strengthening Waqf Law: A Review of Challenges and Solutions in Indonesia

The article addresses the various challenges that waqf (Islamic endowment) law faces in Indonesia. It specifically investigates how the application of Qawā'id Fiqhiyyah (principles of Islamic jurisprudence) can enhance waqf law considering obstacles such as public ignorance about waqf, inadequate legal frameworks, and the necessity for effective management strategies to improve the productivity of waqf assets. The aim of this research is to analyze how Qawā’id Fiqhiyyah can provide foundational support to enhance Waqf law, proposing viable solutions to existing issues. The novelty of this research lies in its integrative approach, which combines traditional Islamic legal principles with the contemporary challenges of waqf management. By focusing on Qawā'id Fiqhiyyah, the study proposes a framework that not only addresses legal and administrative issues but also highlights the cultural and social dimensions of waqf in Indonesia, an area that has not been extensively explored in existing literature. . The results of the research suggest that the application of Qawā'id Fiqhiyyah can provide practical solutions to the identified challenges in waqf law. The study outlines several strategies, including enhancing public education about waqf, improving legal frameworks, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders such as government bodies, religious organizations, and the community. These strategies aim to create a more effective and sustainable waqf system in Indonesia, ultimately leading to increased productivity and a greater social impact of waqf assets

Challenges, Opportunities, and possible Interventions in the Biogas sector in Rural areas of Limpopo, South Africa

Biogas technology offers a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for addressing energy needs, particularly in rural areas. Despite its potential benefits, the adoption of biogas technology in rural Limpopo, South Africa, remains limited. This paper critically examines the factors hindering its uptake. Using an exploratory approach (Qualitative study), data were gathered through interview guide, field surveys, literature reviews, and expert opinions. The analysis indicates that while biogas is a superior thermal option for household energy crises, several challenges need resolution. Key obstacles include ineffective strategies for promoting biogas in Limpopo. Understanding stakeholder perspectives—such as government bodies, local communities, and private enterprises—is crucial for developing strategies to increase biogas use. Necessary interventions include training, capacity-building, and educational awareness initiatives in rural areas to boost adoption. The financial sector's role in renewable energy is critical, especially as cleaner fuels gain attention. Despite its significant benefits in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing household energy security, biogas technology's acceptance and use remain low.

Kabiraj Laxman Mishra: A pioneer of Ayurveda and social welfare in Odisha

Abstract Kabiraj Laxman Mishra, a prominent figure in the field of Ayurveda in Odisha, India, dedicated his life to serving patients from low socio-economic backgrounds throughout the region. Born in January 1900 into a Brahmin family, he received his foundational education at Satyabadi Vana Vidyalaya, renowned for its emphasis on moral values and formal learning. He subsequently graduated from Ravenshaw College in Cuttack and began his career in the police department during British rule in Odisha. However, his profound passion for Ayurveda and his fascination with the healing properties of herbs used by tribal communities inspired him to explore and promote traditional herbal medicine for the benefit of ordinary individuals. After retiring from government service, Mishra authored several books in the Odia language addressing various ailments and their Ayurvedic remedies. He established his pharmacy to prepare medicines based on his extensive experience and tested herbal combinations. His legacy continues through his son, the late Kabiraj Ganesh Mishra, and his wife, Dr. Smt. Sailabala Devi, who currently provides treatment at their residence in Puri. In addition to his contributions to Ayurveda, Kabiraj Laxman Mishra played a significant administrative role within the Temple Administration of the Sri Jagannath Temple in Puri. He served as the President of the Governing Body Council of Gopabandhu Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya and as Chairperson of the Governing Body Council of Samanta Chandra Sekhar College of Puri. In recognition of his impactful work, he was awarded the title of Ayurveda Siromani in 1987 by the Nikhila Utkala Ayurveda Baidya Sammilani. A committed social worker, Mishra also organized free medical camps to provide essential healthcare services to individuals from low socio-economic backgrounds.

Sustainable urban development policies and practices in the United States

Sustainability approaches have a special significance in terms of ensuring a long-term and balanced multi-dimensional urban development. The purpose of the study is to reveal and describe the main features of sustainable urban development in the United States in terms of urban policymaking and practical implementation. In the theoretical part of the paper, various interpretations of sustainable urban development and sustainable cities were discussed and summarized. Meanwhile, a brief description of the current state of global urbanization processes was given. Through secondary data analysis (governmental reports, descriptions of missions and target activities, legislative acts, etc.), comparison and generalization, the main actors (governmental bodies at federal level) and priorities of the U.S. urban policy with a special focus on sustainability were identified and discussed. In addition, the framework of the U.S. sustainable urban development policymaking was suggested and generalized. Different city rankings (based on sustainable development goals, green development, etc.) reveal the leading role of Pacific Coast urban areas, Washington D.C., Boston and New York City in terms of urban sustainability practices. Various urban innovations are implemented in the same and other urban areas, promoting the further development of smart sustainable city concept in the United States.

The sexual behaviors of young Polish women and their knowledge about contraception

Introduction. With the increasing trend of early sexual activity among adolescents, contraception has become a crucial topic. Poland ranks last in the Contraceptive Atlas, as the country with the poorest access to contraception methods and information. This results in a low level of contraceptive knowledge among young people, leading to unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. Adequate sexual education is a key element in promoting sexual health, enabling informed contraceptive choices based on medical knowledge. The responsibility for sexual education lies not only with parents but also with educators, pedagogues, doctors, and governmental bodies. Aim. To assess knowledge about contraception and investigate the sexual behaviors of women aged 15-25, comparing the results with available literature and indicating possible preventive actions in the studied area. Material and methods. An anonymous electronic survey was conducted among women aged 15-25 from across Poland. The survey was distributed on various internet groups, primarily comprising students. It included closed-ended questions verifying knowledge of the topic under study and a demographic section. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using Statistica and Microsoft Excel. Results. The average age of sexual initiation among respondents was 17.84±1.96 years, with one-third of them yet to engage in sexual activity. The majority of respondents (58%) had 1 to 3 sexual partners, and with increasing age and education level, the percentage of those with a higher number of sexual partners increased. The most popular contraceptive methods among respondents were barrier methods, combined oral contraceptive pills, and a combination of barrier and hormonal methods. The main sources of contraceptive information for the respondents were the internet, gynecologists, and scientific literature. Almost all respondents were aware of the definition of contraception, but only half were aware of the Pearl Index. Less than half of the respondents could identify the most effective contraceptive method, while almost all correctly identified the least effective method. The knowledge of the majority of respondents was assessed as moderate, good, or very good. Conclusions. Despite the generally good knowledge of contraception among the majority of respondents, there are still gaps that need to be filled. Due to the progressively decreasing age of sexual initiation, education on contraception is a priority that will help reduce the number of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases in the future.

All Hands on Deck: Coordinated approaches to Indigenous early career development

The Developing Indigenous Early Career Researchers Project is a three-year longitudinal study funded by the Australian Research Council investigating the experiences and perspectives of Indigenous early career researchers working in universities across Australia. In an earlier paper we explored self-identified needs of Indigenous early career researchers regarding the development of sound research trajectories and careers in the academy (Locke et al., 2022). This paper takes a step further in investigating, who is responsible and should be held to account for supporting the development of these Indigenous early carer researchers. Data collected from across all three stages (2020, 2021 and 2022) of this project suggests that Indigenous early career researchers consider that all university staff, including themselves have certain responsibilities towards developing their academic career trajectories. Some Indigenous ECRs also pointed out the roles that external agencies such as government and funding bodies play in guiding institutions to value and promote the diversity and wealth of knowledge that Indigenous academics bring to the academy. This paper engages an Indigenist research approach and employs relatedness theory in advocating the development of policies and programs to support the career trajectories of Indigenous Early Career Researchers, from an Indigenous epistemological standpoint. To close, this paper posits that to achieve optimum outcomes for Indigenous ECR’s there needs to be systematic and coordinated institutional approaches to developing career trajectories that ameliorate challenges and barriers to Indigenous ECR career progression.

Supervised Sentiment Analysis of COVID-19 Tweets: Insights into Public Reactions and Trends

In the modern digital era, social media platforms have experienced exponential growth, serving as a medium for individuals to share their emotions and opinions. Twitter, a prominent social media platform, hosts a substantial number of users who regularly express their thoughts through tweets. This research paper focuses on conducting sentiment analysis on tweets pertaining to the COVID-19 situation in India. By utilizing a lexicon-based approach using TextBlob, we determine sentiment scores for each tweet. These scores are then used to categorize the tweets into Positive, Negative, or Neutral sentiment categories. To further enhance the accuracy of sentiment classification, we employ the Naïve Bayes machine learning model, achieving an impressive accuracy rate of 87.65%. The sentiment analysis results obtained through this study provide valuable insights for governmental bodies and other organizations, enabling them to formulate effective policies in order to address similar issues in the future.